Table of Contents
Enjoy a delicious twist on traditional French toast with our Pumpkin Cheesecake French Toast featuring a crunchy Graham cracker crust. This dish combines the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices with the creamy texture of cheesecake, making it perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
- 8 slices of thick bread (brioche or challah work well)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup crushed Graham crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Maple syrup and powdered sugar for serving
Preparation Steps
Start by preparing the cheesecake filling. In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add the pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla, and spices. Mix until well combined and set aside.
Next, prepare the Graham cracker crust. In a shallow dish, combine crushed Graham crackers with melted butter. Dip each bread slice into the pumpkin mixture, then coat with the Graham cracker mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or non-stick spray. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pumpkin Cheesecake French Toast warm, drizzled with maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar. For extra flavor, add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped pecans. This dish pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or spiced apple cider.
Tips for Success
- Use day-old bread for better absorption of the pumpkin mixture.
- Adjust spices to taste for a more or less spicy flavor.
- Prepare the filling ahead of time to save morning prep.
- Ensure the skillet is properly heated before cooking to achieve a crispy crust.